The Social Justice Institute, at Philander Smith College, is transforming the college
into a social justice institution of higher education through community engagement,
student development, research and academic activities.

Vision:

To create a culture where social justice is a permanent part of the institutional
make-up by engendering a community of consciousness, academic engagement, and advocacy
grounded in justice.

Philander Smith College launched its Social Justice Institute (SJI) in August of 2007
under the leadership and vision of President Walter M. Kimbrough. With support and
backing from faculty, alumni, students and the board of trustees, Philander Smith
College changed its mission "
to graduate academically accomplished students, grounded as
advocates for social justice, determined to change the world for the better
." This rebranding of the college's identity compliments Philander's history, which
has always had a social justice focus, as well as its commitment to the social principles
of the United Methodist Church.

Following the changing of the college mission, other critical milestones followed:

The inclusion of special guest speakers and justice themes for Opening Convocation

Inviting Bless The Mic lecturers who are renowned for their noteworthy activism